Volvo C30

My only regret is I didn't find this car earlier – Definitely a wolf in sheeps clothing, except it's a really good looking sheep!!! I needed a small car for my daily commute but wanted something to put a smile on my face, this car doesn't fail to meet that task. I bought the car with 100k on the clock from a dealer with a full Volvo service history, the car still presents as new, it hasn't missed a beat and I'm yet to fault anything.

The build quality is fantastic although the dash design is a little dated for a 2011 car! This is my first Volvo and I doubt now it will be my last, why, because the engine is sensational, the 2.5 lt 5 cylinder inline Turbo is a beast, oodles of power on tap with torque to match, put your foot down and you can't fail to smile. The engine is shared with the Ford Focus RS.

The C30 also feels sure footed, you don't feel like your driving a small car, corners are also a breeze, it really would take some bad driving to unstick this car accidentally on a road.

The throttle response is good with one exception, if you leave the car in drive and plant the accelerator the kick down delay is annoying at times, it's almost as if the car is saying " are you sure? , oh ok lets go!"

If I had to criticise I'd also like to see bigger and better brakes they are ok but they don't match the performance characteristics, Fuel economy is good on a run but average in urban areas, I average 9.3 lt/100km.

I'll do an update after a year or so and hopefully I'm still as Happy

Comparing 2010 and later T5 C30 – I had a white 2010 model which was great for it's torque, usability and those Volvo qualities. In short, I did get concerned when the driveshafts were replaced under warranty. And it had a problem well known overseas of the T tex (vynyl looking) upholstery cracking. You can get replacement covers but the cracking is native to this fabric and will stay with the car. This car was well treated and kept out of the sun and after a fight with Volvo, they reluctantly replaced the front seat cover blaming other untrue factors. So, after 3 years, I traded it on the last white C30 (2012) in 2013. This was a T5 turbo model with leather this time. I love the car. It's got even more power, the feel of the leather, and while giving a feeling of going on for a long time. It gives 10-12L/100 km but wonderful on anything longer like the M2 giving say 7L/100km. A bit plain inside and I can't help notice my son's Renault Megane S/W GT line which he bought on special. He only paid $26k. I'll keep the Volvo and love that power on tap but very happy but I'll be looking if anything goes wrong. Renault and Alfa would be the first stop because the price is getting so good.

UPDATE 2016

The T5 is 3 years old now and out of warranty. Virtually nothing has gone wrong except a tiny seat fitting underneath. Reliable and powerful, torquey and enough oomph to stay well ahead if needed. This is a 5 cyl twin cam turbo of over 2.5 litres after all. Tyres changed at 40000 kms (Pirelli to Michelin). Typically soft disc rotors and pads can be changed after warranty to RBA rotors and discs. I've done this and they're the same to use but much longer lasting with less brake dust on the wheels. Cheaper too. Wide doors in the 3 door version but as they don't make the C30 anymore I expect that a V40 would do and keep one happy. I do like the 2.5 litres and 3 doors though. Overall I could be one day in a Renault 265 or the right Alfa but it's the only car that makes you feel that it will still be hanging together after 5-10 years. Probably, you'll want a change rather than have to change.

The best car I've ever owned! – I've had my 2008 Volvo C30 T5 R Design for 3 years now. As soon as my kids got their own cars - Mum got hers!! I can honestly say that not only does the car look the business, it has never let me down. Surprisingly roomy when you put the back seats down ( not family sized though), but still roomy enough in the hatch area when seats up to take loads of groceries.

You can cart 4 no problem - the bucket seats are very comfy, the only thing is if you have sons who are 6"5 and 6"2 like mine - they really need to sit up front! No leg room for tall people in the back. Plus, some people don't like climbing into the back of a hatch.

Fuel consumption is fantastic - it literally runs on the smell of an oily rag.

Don't be fooled by the very old saying only oldies with hats drive Volvos - with its 5 cyl Turbo this baby does 0-100ks in around 6.4 seconds! It has serious grunt and performance is amazing. Winding, country roads and open highways a favourite as the slight camber helps to hug the road. (Yes, I love sporty cars :))

The two tone leather seats, carbon fibre centre console and general finish are top quality - as you would expect with Volvo.....plus! The sound system is amazing! The best ever - loads of clarity and bass.

I can highly recommend this car - in fact, I can't see myself ever selling this one!

You will not be disappointed.

My only tip is to go for this particular model, if you can find one, as personally I think the standard version is less appealing. Just my opinion though :-) Absolutely everything! Reliability, inexpensive to run, gorgeous to look at

Excellent – This is not your Volvo of old. This is a truly funky and stylish car. It has sexy curves and looks good from all angles. Inside it is well appointed with all the luxury you would expect from a high quality European car. The dash is easy to read and well lit up and the seats are very comfortable which makes driving a joy. There is adequate rear room for two more people and a large enough rear compartment for your gear as well. A great driving experience and a good looking car. Looks really funky and unique. One of the safest cars on the market. Great engine that pulls the car along really well. Priced a little higher than the Japanese cars, but it offers so much more driving enjoyment (it is well priced for a European car though).